Hurricane Season Is Here. Are You Ready?

In Florida, hurricane season is a fact of life. While no one can predict when or where the next storm will strike, taking a few minutes to prepare now can make a big difference later. 

This year brings a few important updates, including expanded evacuation zones in some communities, changes to Florida’s disaster preparedness tax holiday and reminders about what patients can expect if severe weather affects appointments at Moffitt Cancer Center. 

Here’s what you need to know before the next storm is on the radar. 

1. Your Evacuation Zone May Have Changed

Think you already know your evacuation zone? It may be worth checking again. 

Several Florida counties have updated or expanded evacuation zones to reflect population growth, new development and evolving emergency planning efforts. Knowing your zone before a storm approaches can help you act quickly if local officials issue evacuation orders. 

Don’t wait until a hurricane warning is issued. Take a few minutes now to confirm your zone, familiarize yourself with nearby evacuation routes and identify shelter options. You can find your evacuation zone by visiting FloridaDisaster.com.  

2. How Can a Storm Affect Your Moffitt Appointment? 

When severe weather threatens the region, Moffitt’s top priority is keeping patients, caregivers and team members safe while ensuring continuity of care whenever possible. 

If weather conditions require schedule changes, patients will receive updates through the MyMoffitt Patient Portal, text messages, phone calls and Moffitt’s website. Care teams work closely together to evaluate appointments, treatments and procedures, and communicate any necessary adjustments as early as possible. 

Before a storm, patients should: 

• Confirm their contact information is up to date

• Monitor weather forecasts and Moffitt communications

• Refill medications and gather important medical documents

• Include health care needs in their emergency preparedness plans

A little preparation today can help reduce stress if severe weather develops. 

3. Save Money While Stocking Your Hurricane Kit

Preparing for hurricane season just got a little easier. 

Florida’s permanent disaster preparedness sales tax exemption now allows residents to purchase qualifying emergency supplies tax-free throughout the year, replacing the temporary tax holidays offered in previous years. 

Eligible items may include batteries, flashlights, weather radios, coolers, tarps, portable power banks, generators and certain pet supplies. Whether you’re building an emergency kit for the first time or replenishing supplies from previous seasons, the year-round exemption makes it easier to prepare before a storm threatens. 

If it’s been a while since you’ve checked your emergency kit, now is a great time to replace expired items, restock essentials and make sure you’re ready for the season ahead. 

The most effective hurricane plans are made long before a storm appears in the forecast.  

Hurricane season runs through Nov. 30. The best time to prepare is before you need to.